Allen's Gift of Music 

Guitars Not Guns of Maryland is dedicated to the memory of Allen J. Whitt, Jr. who was tragically taken by a single gunshot on New Year's day, January 1st, 2014.  A young man's inclination towards violence abruptly terminated Allen's existence, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of his loved ones.

In honor of Allen's memory and his love for creating music, we have established Guitars Not Guns-Allen’s Gift of Music. Our hope is that through this organization, we can help at-risk youth make better choices in life and find a positive outlet for their creative potential.

Music was Allen's passion and his talent for playing the guitar was undeniable. He had a gift that far surpassed any novice player, and his love for music started at a young age and carried with him into adulthood. Allen's passion and drive to succeed as a musician took him to places he never thought possible, and his talents gave him an opportunity that most will never know.

Yet, it wasn't just the music Allen played that drew people near and far, it was who he was as a person that captured his audience. His compassion, generosity, and willingness to use his talents to help others are just a few of the qualities that made him so special.

Allen's annual band performances at the local zoo raised money to save countless animals, and he performed for charities and families who had lost loved ones. One of our favorite memories was when he rallied his peers, teachers, and school to put on a performance to raise money for his girlfriend who had cancer. It was moments like this that truly shaped who Allen was in life and how his memory will be cherished.

Through Guitars Not Guns-Allen’s Gift of Music to Maryland, we hope to keep Allen's love for music alive by providing free guitars and lessons to children and teens who may not have access to these resources. By using music as a catalyst for personal development, we aim to help divert children and teens from self-destructive indulgences such as drugs, alcohol, and gang-related activities.

We believe that every child deserves a chance to succeed, and we hope that through our programs, we can help children and teens find their passion and follow their dreams.

Please help us honor Allen's memory by supporting Guitars Not Guns-Allen’s Gift to Maryland and making a difference in the lives of our community's youth.